Caramelized Onion Pasta Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 340g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
02 - Salt for boiling pasta water

→ Caramelized Onions

03 - 2 large onions, thinly sliced
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1 tablespoon butter
06 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
07 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Chilli Oil

08 - 1/4 cup olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon chili flakes
10 - 1 garlic clove, minced
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Garnish

13 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
14 - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
15 - Extra chili oil (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle sugar (if using) to aid caramelization. Cook onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until deep golden-brown. Set aside.
02 - In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low to medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes. Stir occasionally for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add smoked paprika (if using) and salt, then stir and remove from heat.
03 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of cooking water.
04 - In the skillet used for the onions, add the pasta and caramelized onions. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat evenly. Pour the chili oil over the pasta and toss again.
05 - Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Drizzle with extra chili oil for additional spice. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Adjust chili flakes and garlic based on spice preference.
02 - Caramelized onions can be made ahead and refrigerated for 2-3 days.
03 - Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be added for variety.